Political Alliance Talks Intensify as 2027 Nears
As Nigeria’s 2027 presidential contest draws closer, political negotiations within the opposition landscape are heating up, with renewed calls for former Labour Party (LP) flagbearer Peter Obi to join forces with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on the ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Atiku, who defected to the ADC to spearhead a broad opposition coalition against President Bola Tinubu, is reported to be looking for a southern running mate, and Obi’s name has surfaced prominently in those discussions.
Veteran journalist and political ally Dele Momodu has publicly urged Obi to commit to the alliance, arguing that a combined Atiku‑Obi ticket offers one of the strongest possible partnerships to unseat the incumbent government.
Momodu has repeatedly stressed the strategic value of uniting different regions and constituencies, insisting that any further delay by Obi in making up his mind could weaken collective opposition efforts.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Atiku’s camp is actively engaging potential running mates from the South to balance the ticket and broaden appeal. Should Obi decline the offer, a leading alternative under consideration is former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi.
This development underscores the urgency within opposition circles to solidify alliances ahead of the party primaries and national campaign season.
Amaechi himself has publicly downplayed rumors linking him to a prospective vice‑presidential slot, stating that he remains focused on pursuing his own presidential ambition.
He insists he is not interested in serving as a deputy, though speculation around his role continues to circulate in political discourse.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi has reportedly been cautious about formally joining the ADC or accepting a vice‑presidential offer, with political watchers suggesting he is weighing public reaction and the potential impact on his own support base before committing to any alliance.
His supporters have at times expressed reservations about such a partnership, valuing his independent candidacy and its appeal to younger voters.
The opposition coalition remains fluid, with various stakeholders advocating for different configurations and strategies.
As the 2027 general election landscape continues to take shape, the decisions of key figures like Obi and Atiku will likely have significant implications for the balance of power ahead of Nigeria’s next presidential vote.
